View Full Version : Can someone tell me why I like my SA Custom Shop FBI Professional so much?
Eurodriver
01-29-21, 08:09
I really shouldn’t like it.
It is heavy. Even empty it weighs more than a fully loaded polymer gun.
It only has 10+1 capacity (with an extended mag).
The grip with a 10rd extended mag is longer than the grip on an M9 with a 20rd extended mag.
It isn’t modular. In fact, I had to search just to find a Custom 1911 that accepted a light.
It’s a BEAR just to get the slide off (I actually need a tool because the bushing/barrel/slide fit is so tight) and extremely complicated by modern standards to completely disassemble.
It was expensive. I bought it used and still could’ve bought five Glock 19s for the same price. Or nightvision. Or an SR15. Or an ATV.
So why is it my favorite handgun? Why did I buy multiple cases of .45 ACP at gouging-level prices so I can continue shooting it? Why do I shoot it every chance I get? Why do I sit at my desk and play with it when I don’t get that chance? Why do I have multiple sets of Cocobolo grips? Why is shooting this at steel more fun than shooting another handgun at steel? Why can’t I shoot it worse than a 100-3x at a 25y B8? Why do all the old guys at the range give me that look of “Wise choice, young man...” when I bring it out? Why do I like it even though my friends say I should put it on bread with peanut butter (Jam joke - even though it runs flawlessly)
None of this makes any sense...
Supply pics I will tell you why you enjoy it so much
Fortunately, “making any sense” isn’t necessary.
I’m sure a number of us share your condition. : )
As a recent 1911 owner after decades without I understand completely. I bought the Pro in 9mm and a couple others in .45. I've been buying .45 at exorbitant prices just to shoot the .45's when I economically shouldn't be. Basically 25 years of 1911's and 20 without. Pistol shooting is fun again. Of the several I've bought my favorites are the Pro 9mm without a rail and a Long Beach Operator in 45 with the rail. I can't see me ever being Glockless but I also see no reason not to keep 1911's as well.
You just talked yourself into a great pistol, 1911s don't make sense until you shoot one.
Why do you like that gun???
The same reason some choose a Rolex over a Timex or a BMW over an accord.
You need to start hand loading. Shoot some 185 g SWC through that and you will laugh. You will also save a lot of cash
Because its awesome. 1911's are cool, and the reality is you will likely never need more than 8 rounds....you most likely will never use the gun besides your own entertainment.
Ironically, I was in the spot you were just a couple years ago. Thought I'd be there forever, but decided to consolidate to the G19. 1911's are gone (even though I loved them). Sold the BMW for an F150. Did buy a Rolex.
If you enjoy it, roll with it.
Its all perspective. No right or wrong.
Nothing beats the classic look and feel of a 1911.... I didn't realize it until I bought one a year or so ago.
Johnny Rico
02-01-21, 17:48
There's more to life than simple utility.
"1911's have a soul; character." - Ken Hackathorn
https://youtu.be/ct8aJw-y_Qk
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Because its the most badass gun on planet earth.
PB
There's something about the feel of a SA Custom Shop gun. The Dave Williams touch. They are hard fit. They just have this sort of monolithic feel.
They shoot different than say a Wilson Combat or Nighthawk. Not necessarily better, just different. The build style is closer to a Les Baer or one of my old Rock Rivers. Just solid.
Gary1911A1
02-05-21, 07:51
Maybe because you know it was a 1911 build for serious purpose instead of being just a range/competition 1911.
I’m a big fan of the SA Pro. It has been dead nuts reliable and extremely easy to shoot.
65127
WillieThom
02-08-21, 08:13
I’m a big fan of the SA Pro. It has been dead nuts reliable and extremely easy to shoot.
65127
Nice! I’ve wondered how a Pro would look like with that Chambers RDSM touch...
SeriousStudent
02-08-21, 08:28
Because it is a cheater gun, and cheating is fun. :)
I only have four 1911's, and they are all ridiculously fun to shoot. Why not have guns that are simply fun? Every range trip does not have to be about shooting weak-hand only and practicing injured-shooter one-hand reloads. Heaven forbid we simply enjoy ourselves and create a good memory.
And as a previous poster said - this thread is worthless without pics.
richiecotite
02-10-21, 12:06
I think part of the appeal of the Pro is its lineage, and the fact that’s it’s spec’d with pretty much everything you would need in a hard use gun. The black t finish is also pretty great.
And cuz why thread without pics...https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210210/0851853d72558e9688874d4afd688511.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210210/bf8fb3c920c7de8535257502ec94d1b7.jpg
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Because its the most badass gun on planet earth.
PB
Damn right, PB.
tanksoldier
02-11-21, 10:51
Can someone tell me why I like my SA Custom Shop FBI Professional so much?
You should hate it.
Send it to me for proper disposal...
"1911's have a soul; character." - Ken Hackathorn
My old Kimber is a high maintenance Biotch! But if you keep her happy she will purr like a kitten all day long.
My newer 9mm Pro sure is pretty but I haven't yet found my way into her heart yet.
I can answer that question in four words Alex.
"You're f***ing old Euro!"
Eurodriver
02-12-21, 09:00
I can answer that question in four words Alex.
"You're f***ing old Euro!"
Lmao.
I see now why old guys are the ones that drive Maclarens. Yeah, they’re generally the ones that can afford it but they also appreciate comfort and high craftsmanship.
Eurodriver
02-12-21, 09:04
Maybe because you know it was a 1911 build for serious purpose instead of being just a range/competition 1911.
This is huge. I love that the gun has scratches and is beat up. You should see the way I treat this thing. It lives in a kydex holster and is always getting scratched. Scratches don’t affect what I want it to do though - crush the 10 ring on B8s at 25y.
L
hotrodder636
02-12-21, 10:11
That RDS mounted on top just looks straight badass. Who did the RDS mount?
I’m a big fan of the SA Pro. It has been dead nuts reliable and extremely easy to shoot.
65127
Anyone have one of these in 9mm or is that just stupid for this gun?
WillieThom
02-12-21, 16:42
That RDS mounted on top just looks straight badass. Who did the RDS mount?
https://www.store.chamberscustom.com/products/chambers-custom-rdms-plate
Eurodriver
02-12-21, 17:52
I’m a big fan of the SA Pro. It has been dead nuts reliable and extremely easy to shoot.
65127
Beautiful! I missed this post
Not exactly the same thing but....
Has been stupid reliable while treated no different than a Glock
6518365184
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This is huge. I love that the gun has scratches and is beat up. You should see the way I treat this thing. It lives in a kydex holster and is always getting scratched. Scratches don’t affect what I want it to do though - crush the 10 ring on B8s at 25y.
Sorry for not including a pic guys. I failed!
https://i.ibb.co/TrJNMnB/368-E9-B55-1-D12-4-B6-B-8-B16-779654-AE4-BDF.jpg
Nice looking pro, I almost traded my non railed pro for this exact gun...:). Well, now I want one....specifically an older contract gun.
Cheater trigger, nice shootable weight, mechanical accuracy that makes the shooter the weak point, and the ergonomics God intended as instantiated by JMB... I mean, it's hard to understand why you might like it when price is no object.
[QUOTE=Anyone have one of these in 9mm or is that just stupid for this gun?[/QUOTE]
I do and it’s one of my favorites. It’s non railed and with 10 round mags and good ammo what’s not to like. I’m surprised Euro hasn’t picked one up knowing his thoughts on the 9.1911’s in 9 are a thing nowadays, they work, I’ve got the Pro and two Colt CCU,s. The LW Colt CCU OCC even does carry duty on occasion.
I don't like one enough to fork over $3,500 , Wilson and Nighthawk territory that !
Restricted
02-16-21, 11:35
SA Pro is another grail gun for me. Sure, Wilson, NightHawk, etc will probably build a better gun, but its just such a classic.
I think Wilson and Nighthawk make some slicker guns, but I don't know if they are better. Maybe, maybe not, if it goes bang every time and for EVER, that is the most important thing and holds its accuracy. I think a NHC gun is broke in on day 1, the SA Pro are built so tight it can take a hot minute before those rails are silky smooth like NHC. Does it mean the Pro will last longer, shit I don't know.
I know it's a good world when we have the option of Wilson, NHC and SA Pro guns.
Johnny Rico
02-16-21, 18:40
I don't like one enough to fork over $3,500 , Wilson and Nighthawk territory that !
Do you need it spec'd out the exact way the FBI requested? Because the Pro is essentially a Springfield Custom Carry with some additional features.
https://live.staticflickr.com/754/23406235699_7f91636d78_c.jpg
Only differences between this gun and a Pro are -
1) Black-T
2) Ambi
3) Front strap checkering
4) Magwell
5) Night sights
6) Flush and recessed slide stop
Everything else, from the craftmanship to the quality of parts is exactly the same, at 2/3 the price of a Pro.
what does it say on the slide? What is the cost?
PB
Do you need it spec'd out the exact way the FBI requested? Because the Pro is essentially a Springfield Custom Carry with some additional features.
https://live.staticflickr.com/754/23406235699_7f91636d78_c.jpg
Only differences between this gun and a Pro are -
1) Black-T
2) Ambi
3) Front strap checkering
4) Magwell
5) Night sights
6) Flush and recessed slide stop
Everything else, from the craftmanship to the quality of parts is exactly the same, at 2/3 the price of a Pro.
If that is the custom carry I think it is, I have loved that gun for over 10 years, such a beauty and those KOA grips are so nice.
Johnny Rico
02-16-21, 19:00
what does it say on the slide? What is the cost?
PB
The side I showed says -
MODEL 1911-A1
CAL .45
Here is the other side.
https://live.staticflickr.com/1543/24175492482_fdd6b8e62b_c.jpg
Retail price for the Custom Carry is $2395.
The side I showed says -
MODEL 1911-A1
CAL .45
Here is the other side.
https://live.staticflickr.com/1543/24175492482_fdd6b8e62b_c.jpg
Retail price for the Custom Carry is $2395.
Yep, that’s the one. I love your custom carry, those grips just fit it so well. I should have ordered a custom carry over 10 years ago when they were like 1700.
Not all FBI Special Agents liked the Springfield pistol. I am a former Agent. I am good friends with a recently retired Agent who was the lead swat team leader for his office. They were all assigned the Springfield 1911. After a considerable amount of training and shooting, ALL of the Agents on the swat team in this particular office decided not to use the issue Springfield, and instead all bought Glock 21's. Why? The Springfield's were too troublesome and unreliable for the Agents to have confidence in. Just one office, but definitely the other side of the story.
“Reliability” in the 1911 is a function of dedication in learning and maintaining that format.
I seriously doubt the SA pistols were somehow lacking.
Eurodriver
02-19-21, 18:17
Not all FBI Special Agents liked the Springfield pistol. I am a former Agent. I am good friends with a recently retired Agent who was the lead swat team leader for his office. They were all assigned the Springfield 1911. After a considerable amount of training and shooting, ALL of the Agents on the swat team in this particular office decided not to use the issue Springfield, and instead all bought Glock 21's. Why? The Springfield's were too troublesome and unreliable for the Agents to have confidence in. Just one office, but definitely the other side of the story.
If I wanted to make sure I made it to work on time I’d take a Toyota Camry.
If I wanted to enjoy my commute I’d drive a Lotus.
One is simple and reliable, the other isn’t.
Dave Williams
02-20-21, 20:06
I know a man on an FBI Regional SWAT Team, very good shooter. One of their qual stages is 17 rounds from the draw into an 8" circle at 5 yards, with a reload after 10 rounds, no misses. 13 second time limit, 11 seconds is advanced. He says it's much easier with a G17 vs a 1911. I passed it cold with a G19. I've never tried it with a 1911.
Eurodriver
02-20-21, 20:20
I know a man on an FBI Regional SWAT Team, very good shooter. One of their qual stages is 17 rounds from the draw into an 8" circle at 5 yards, with a reload after 10 rounds, no misses. 13 second time limit, 11 seconds is advanced. He says it's much easier with a G17 vs a 1911. I passed it cold with a G19. I've never tried it with a 1911.
Are you....the Dave Williams?
Like the guy who built my handgun?
I’m doubting this is the 1911, SA Custom Shop Dave W.
The likelihood of the 1911 Smith Dave Williams having shot a drill with a Glock, and not with a 1911 are extremely small.
I also question why a “precision/speed drill” would be easier with a Glock than a 1911; the comparative shit nature of the Glock trigger alone would seem a handicap.
Eurodriver
02-21-21, 07:03
I’m doubting this is the 1911, SA Custom Shop Dave W.
The likelihood of the 1911 Smith Dave Williams having shot a drill with a Glock, and not with a 1911 are extremely small.
I also question why a “precision/speed drill” would be easier with a Glock than a 1911; the comparative shit nature of the Glock trigger alone would seem a handicap.
Good points. I didn’t want to argue the second point until I was sure on the first haha.
I know a man on an FBI Regional SWAT Team, very good shooter. One of their qual stages is 17 rounds from the draw into an 8" circle at 5 yards, with a reload after 10 rounds, no misses. 13 second time limit, 11 seconds is advanced. He says it's much easier with a G17 vs a 1911. I passed it cold with a G19. I've never tried it with a 1911.
I have no reason to doubt what you're saying. However, the three local FBI SWAT guys I spent time with loved the Pro's. There's also a lot of variables that go into it. Did your guy put in 20,000 rounds with Glocks? Most shooters now never learned to swipe a safety so that could be a hindrance. Of course there's the 9mm thing. I have carried Glocks daily since 2000 and still do but if they were universally better I would think they would dominate the shooting sports as well. My Pro is in 9mm and I can tell you that I shoot faster and more accurately with it than the Glock 19 or 19X and that's after a 20 year hiatus from 1911's.
Every HRT dude I’ve met (regular contact 2005-2015) was carrying a Glock, and could use them very well. I never gathered how they felt about 1911s.
Dave Williams
02-21-21, 12:00
No I'm not the Dave Williams from SACS.
The FBI Agent also told me the handgun is only a secondary gun for SWAT, and is only brought out for transitions from the carbine, and the 1911 is seen as complicated under those circumstances due to having to swipe off the thumb safety.
I personally switched to 1911 full time just over a year ago. Love it. GRP Recon.
Ultimately though it doesn't matter what gun you use, it's the Indian, not the arrow.
Seldom in life does only one thing matter. If utility were all that mattered, the world would look very different.
Why do you love your Pro, Euro? Because you’re human.
I wanted a Pro enough that I put myself on the waitlist for one when it was 3 years long. When after 32 months of waiting it was coming close to my turn, I contacted SACS to check status, and they replied with "We called you to let you know your pistol was ready and you did not respond, so your chance has passed". I checked my cell phone records for any call from SACS, and there was none. When I proved that to them, they said "Oh, our mistake. Did you know the price went up? We'll sell you one at the new price (HUNDREDS of dollars more), not at the price we agreed to 32 months ago." I declined that generous offer and sent Deb (the woman with whom I had placed my original offer) an e-mail letting her know how disappointed I was with SACS business practices. I had 7 SA 1911s at that point and got rid of all but one.
I took the money and ordered a custom DW Silverback:
https://i.imgur.com/BQDZJwLh.jpg
And spent a little more and got a LB Custom Carry Commanche:
https://i.imgur.com/qmt9JHih.jpg
But nowadays I carry this ACW Prime finished in polished DLC:
https://i.imgur.com/lUoET0Eh.jpg
I think the love for 1911s is not necessarily brand dependent but has more to do with how any given 1911 feels in the hand. I had a Kimber Eclipse that I bought in 2006 that I put 14K rounds through before my son asked for it as his graduation gift. I had seriously bonded with that pistol and spent years looking for another that had the same connection for me. After all of the 1911s I have owned, nothing has done it for me like the ACW has. It simply is the best I have ever owned, and it finally stopped me from always looking for another 1911. It will save me a lot of money in the long run.
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